Leading fast-casual poke concept to open three locations in the North Bay Area thanks to efficiency expert franchisee
A systems engineer looks at organizational systems and identifies ways to be more efficient. So it makes sense that Deanne Austin, a recently retired systems engineer, would look to become a Pokeworks franchise owner – to combine her organizational skills and her entrepreneurial spirit.
Austin, a Napa, Calif. resident, has been a self-proclaimed Pokeworks fan for many years, having first visited the Coeur D’alene location and igniting a friendship with the local franchisees. Now, the first-time franchisee has signed an Area Development Agreement (ADA) to open three Pokeworks locations in the North Bay Area.
“Pokeworks’ commitment to supporting a healthy lifestyle really struck a chord with me, aligning with my personal ideology,” said Austin. “When I learned that it’s the largest and fastest-growing brand in the poke category, I knew that it was the perfect company for my first foray into franchising.”
Austin notes that her experience in service and project management will translate smoothly to owning three Pokeworks restaurants. “Being a successful restaurateur requires you to be flexible, willing to learn and able to lead and delegate – all while managing multiple tasks at the same time. I’m excited to start the entrepreneurial phase of my career with Pokeworks!”
Renowned for launching the worldwide poke movement, Pokeworks is dedicated to meeting the growing demand for high-quality, premium fast-casual cuisine. The company is recognized in Entrepreneur’s 2023 Franchise 500 list, ranked #12 on Fast Casual’s 2023 “Movers & Shakers” list, and is the only poke concept named to Entrepreneur’s Best of the Best Franchises.
To learn more about Pokeworks, its locations and its full menu, visit Pokeworks.com. For easy ordering and a variety of perks – including $5 off your first app order – download the Pokeworks app in the App Store or Google Play Store.
Pokeworks was founded in 2015 with the simple mission of spreading its love of fresh, healthy, and delicious poke – a renowned staple of Hawaiian cuisine – with the wo world. Pokeworks’ innovative Poke Your Way approach is groundbreaking, offering guests limitless ways to customize their poke order to match their eating preferences including vegan, gluten-free, and other mindful diets. The Poke Burrito has developed a cult-like following, much like Pokeworks’ proprietary sauces, which range from sweet and spicy to savory. Pokeworks believes in living a healthy lifestyle and eating meals made from the freshest, highest quality ingredients from sustainable food sources. In 2022, the brand was honored to be named the “Top Poke Franchise” by Startups Magazine. Pokeworks has quickly expanded to become the leading fast-casual poke brand in the world with four consecutive years on Fast Casual’s “Top 100 Movers and Shakers” list as well as Entrepreneur’s 2023 “Best of the Best Franchises” and Franchise 500 Ranking. Pokeworks has more than 72 locations across US, Taiwan, and Mexico, with Canada coming soon. For more information visit Pokeworks.com or follow Pokeworks on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and TikTok. To learn about franchising with Pokeworks, visit PokeworksFranchise.com.
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